Ann Arbor Times

Avi Dragun from Milan, Michigan, has been named a recipient of the 2025 Presidential Scholarship at Eastern Michigan University (EMU). Dragun is among 20 first-year students chosen for this honor. The group’s academic profile includes an average ACT score of 28, SAT score of 1280, and a GPA of 4.11.

The EMU Presidential Scholarship covers up to $100,000 in full tuition, fees, and four years of room and board. Recipients are also active members of The Honors College at EMU, where they have access to additional opportunities for critical thinking, community engagement, and leadership.

Ann Eisenberg, dean of The Honors College, stated: "The recipients of this scholarship have used their unique skill sets to make an impact on their schools and communities and are committed to helping those around them. We are excited to have selected 20 young people who are eager to engage actively in the EMU community and to make it a better place through their involvement in student organizations, research labs, and more. We are honored to support them in this next stage of their education."

Dragun previously attended Early College Alliance and says the award will allow her to experience campus life fully by living on campus and joining clubs.

"I was very excited to learn that I had been selected,” said Dragun. "Dr. Eisenberg informed me that I got it, and I didn’t hear anything she said after that. I was a little distracted trying to be quiet despite my furious jumping up and down. I couldn’t physically contain my excitement.”

Dragun intends to major in chemistry and environmental science with a concentration in chemistry as well as minor in anthropology. She plans to pursue doctoral studies after completing her undergraduate degree.

“Being a presidential scholar means freedom,” said Dragun. “The presidential scholarship gives me the freedom not to have to worry about bills, and it means that I get to put all of my focus into my education and preparing myself for the future.”

Students interested in applying for the Presidential Scholarship can do so during their senior year of high school by visiting the university's webpage.

Eastern Michigan University was established in 1849 as Michigan’s second-oldest public university. Today it serves over 12,000 students across undergraduate through doctoral programs with more than 300 areas of study offered through its various colleges. The university is recognized nationally for its diversity, applied education focus, career readiness initiatives—including hands-on learning experiences—and industry partnerships that help graduates prepare for careers.

Additional information about Eastern Michigan University is available on its website or via EMU Today.